Parks Department

City of Bluffton Parks & Recreation
Brandy FiechterSuperintendent   
Karla Fritts – Assistant Superintendent 
Laurie Baumgartner
Sports Coordinator
Randy Peeper – Maintenance Supervisor
Office: (260) 824-6069
Fax: (260) 824-6041
parks@blufftonindiana.gov

2023 Annual Report
2022 Annual Report
2021 Annual Report
2020 Annual Report

Park Board Members
Rick McEvoy
Christine Zadylak
John Gerber
Susan Campbell

The Park Board meets on the second  Thursday of the month at 6:30 pm on the 2nd floor of the City Hall Building. Further information is available by calling 824-6069.

Bluffton Parks & Recreation Department

 5-Year Master Plan 2022
Summer Job Application (closed for 2024)
Interurban Trail Design
(260) 824-6069 – parks@blufftonindiana.gov
Facebook: Bluffton Parks     Twitter: @Bluffton Parks
Pool Rental Agreement 2024– (260) 824-1550
Splash Pads Hours 11 am – 7 pm
Rock Steady Boxing Classes for Parkinson’s (M, W, F 10:30 a.m.) New location 710 S Mulberry
K 9 Kommons Dog Park 2024 Rules and Waiver
City Gym Photo Tour
City Gym Calendar: https://teamup.com/kshe54y9g2zc9mykm8
Open gym registration form
Pavilion Rental Calendar
Pool rental calendar: https://teamup.com/c/tofjqj/pool-rentals
Roush Park Golf Cart Parking
Playground Rules
Bluffton City Gym Membership 2024
Pavilion Rental Form 2024
Memorial Tree Donation Form


Annual Events Calendar 

Click on highlighted events for more information! All events are subject to change or cancellation. Events with * are pre-registered only and usually register a month before the event.

January
City Gym Calendar: Open Gym Calendar: 3:30-6PM Sun, Mon., Thurs., Sat.
1 – 2024 Wells Wonderful Winter 100 Challenge Start (2024 Challenge Log)  (Online Registration)
2-31 Free Weekday Walking 8:30-10:30am
2-30 Open Gym 3:30-6pm Open Gym Registration Waiver Form
2- Summer Job Application (closed 2024)
2-30 – Toddler Time Tuesdays and Thursdays 11am-12pm
2, 9, 16, 23, 30- Farm Wagon 9 am
4 – Toddler Time Play Day 11am
11,18,25 – Hooked On Crochet 5:30-6:30pm *
18 – Theater Thursday 10am*
29 – Hue Can Paint 6-7:45pm *

February
City Gym Calendar: Open Gym Calendar 3:30-6pm Sun., Mon., Thurs., Sat.
1-29 – Toddler Time Tuesdays and Thursdays 11am-12pm
1-29 Free Weekday Walking 8:30-10:30am
1 – Toddler Time Block Party 11am
1-29 Open Gym 3:30-6pm Open Gym Registration Waiver Form
3- Chilly Chili Trail Run  (Online Registration)
6, 13, 20, 27- Farm Wagon 9 am           Map
8, 15, 22 Hooked On Crochet 5:30-6:30pm Washington Inside Pavilion *
15 – Theater Thursday 10am
18 –Online Registration:  Mother Son Nerf War Alien Invasion 2-3:30pm*
18 – Online Registration: Daddy Daughter Dance To the Moon and Back 6-8pm *
28-March 13 – Murphy the Mischievous Leprechaun
29 – Summer Job Application Deadline

March
City Gym Calendar: Open gym calendar 3:30-6pm Sun., Mon., Thurs., Sat.
1-13 Murphy the Mischievous Leprechaun
1- 29 Free Weekday Walking 8:30-10:30am
2-14 Open Gym 3:30-6pm  open gym registration Waiver form
4-April 1 – Spring Coloring Contest
5, 12, 19, 26 – Farm Wagon 9 am   Map
5-28 – Toddler Time Tuesdays and Thursdays 11am-12pm
5 – Lego Build Challenge 5:30-6:30pm*
7 – Toddler Time Post office Tour 11am
7, 14, 21 – Hooked On Crochet 5:30-6:30pm Washington Inside pavilion *
18 – Hue Can Paint 6-7:45pm*
21 – Theater Thursday 10am

April
2, 9, 16, 23, 30- Farm Wagon 9 am   Map
13 – Junk to Glam Barbie Dream House $15 per box 10-11:30am*
16-May 16- Senior Snippets*
18 – Theater Thursday 10am
20 – Earth Day 5k 9 am (online registration)
27 – Swim Lesson Registration 2yrs & up 9-11am

May
2024 Summer Recreation Activities
1 – Pedal Wells Cycling Challenge Begins
1-16  Senior Snippets*
1-31 Animal Tracks Matching Game Form  Animal Tracks Matching Game
7, 14, 21, 28 – Farm Wagon 9 am     Map
9 – Nerf Wars 5:30-6:30pm $1 *
14 – The Firefly 2024 Tour Fort Wayne Ballet 7pm
16 – Theater Thursday 10am

21 – Hue Can Paint 6-7:45pm *
25 – Wells Community Pool Opens

June
2024 Summer Recreation Activities
3 – Gagaball 2pm at Roush Park Gagaball Pit
3 – July 19 – Free Tennis Lessons 
Tennis Waiver (no Class July 1-5th)
3,10,17,24- Craft Club 11am-12pm Roush Park
4, 11, 18, 25- Farm Wagon 9 am    Map
4-27 – Toddler Time Tuesday and Thursdays 9-9:30am Roush Park
4-27 – Pickleball Tues. & Thurs. 10am Washington park Tennis Courts
5 – Egg Drop Challenge 2-3pm City Gym
6 – Lego Play Day 9:30-10:30am Roush Park
7 – Bayou County (CCR Tribute) Kehoe Concert 8-10 pm
7, 14, 21, 28 – Art in The Park 10:30-11:30am Roush Park
10 – Stone Quarry Tour 2-3*
11 – 5 in 5 5k Series (Run 1) 7 pm at Wabash Pavilion (behind Hardee’s)
12 – Foam Party 2-3pm Pickett’s Run by the Splash Pad
14 – Mellencougar (John Mellencamp Tribute) Kehoe Concert 8-10 pm
17 – Matchbox Car Play Day 10-11am Roush Park
18 – 5 in 5 5k Series (Run 2) 7 pm at Wabash Pavilion (behind Hardee’s)
18 & 25 – Summer Corn Program 10-11am Roush Park
18 – Animal Explorers 9-9:30am Roush Park
19 – Fuse bead Magnet 2-3pm Washington Park Inside Pavilion*
19 – Friendship Bracelets 3-4pm Washington Inside Pavilion*
20 – Theater Thursday 10AM
20 – Shaving Cream Fight 2-2:30pm Pickett’s Run by the splash pad
20 – Chicks Run 7 pm
21 – Rock Painting 10-10:30am Roush Park

24 – Stuff and Fluff 10-10:30am Roush Park*
25 – 5 in 5 5k Series (Run 3) 7 pm
26 – Dinosaur Dig 10:30-11am Roush Park*
27 – Paper Skyscraper Challenge 2-3pm City Gym
28 – Def Leggend (Def Leppard Tribute) Kehoe Concert 8-10 pm
30 – Community Worship Celebration 7-8:30pm

July
2024 Summer Recreation Activities
2 – 5 in 5 5k Series (Run 4) 7 pm
2-30 – Pickleball Tues. & Thurs. 10am  (no class July 4)
2 – NO Farm Wagon – shut down
4 – Fireworks Show 10 pm
9 – 5 in 5 5k Series (Run 5) 7 pm
8-19-  Free Tennis Lessons
9, 16, 23, 30 – Farm Wagon 9 am   Map
10, 11, 12 – Free Drawing Class 11am-12pm Washington Park Indoor Pavilion*
10 – Bucket Drumming Roush Park*
12 – Hotel California (Eagles Tribute) Kehoe Concert 8-10 pm
17 – Jr. Vet Day *
18 – Theater Thursday 10am
26 – The Insiders (Tom Petty Tribute) 8-10 pm
29 – Hue Can Paint 6-7:45pm *

August
2024 Summer Recreation Activities
2 – Woomblies Rock Orchestra Kehoe Concert 8 – 10 pm
4 – Wells Community Pool Last Day
6, 13, 20, 27 – Farm Wagon 9 am    Map
15 – Theater Thursday 10AM
24 – Touch A Truck 9am-Noon
31 – Parlor City Trot 7 am. 5k, 10k, 1/2 Marathon

September
3, 10, 17, 24- Farm Wagon 9 am    Map
5 – Nerf Wars 5:30-6:30pm City gym*
11-Oct.16- Fall Coloring Contest
22-Oct 17 Senior Snippets*
26 – Theater Thursday 10AM
30- Hue Can Paint 6-7:45pm *

October
1-23 Fall Coloring Contest
1 – Immunization Clinic at Farm Wagon 7:30-9am  English Consent Form   Spanish Consent Form
1-31 Free Weekday Walking 8:30-10:30am
1-17 Senior Snippets*
1, 8,15, 22, 29 –Farm Wagon 9 am    Map
1-29 – Toddler Time Tuesday and Thursdays
3 – Toddler Time Police Station visit 11am meet in City Gym
14-Nov.4 – Creative Kids Christmas Card Decorating Contest
17 – Theater Thursday 10AM
21-31st Virtual Costume Contest
31 –Boo In Bluffton 5-6pm

November
Open Gym Calendar 3:30-6pm Sun., Mon., Thurs., Sat.
1-27 Free Weekday Walking 8:30-10:30am
1-22 Ralph the Roaming Turkey
2 – W.O.O.F. Trail Run 9 am. 5, 10, 15 Mile Events
5, 12, 19, 26 – Farm Wagon 9 am     Map
2-25 Open gym 3:30-6pm    Open gym registration Waiver form
5-26 Toddler Time Tuesday and Thursdays 11am – 12pm
4 – Creative Kids Christmas Card Decorating contest ends
6 – Virtual Costume Contest Voting Ends
7 – Toddler Time Fire Station Visit 11am-12pm
7, 14, 21- Hooked On Crochet 5:30-6:30PM*
13-Dec.13 – Giant Stocking Coloring Contest
21 – Theater Thursday 10AM
27- Dec. 13 – Santa Mailbox (ends Dec.13th by 8:00am)
25 – Hue Can Paint 6-7:45pm *

December
City Gym Calendar:
2-30 Free Weekday Walking 8:30-10:30am
2-31 – Community Positivi Tree
3-26 Toddler Time Tuesdays and Thursdays 11am-12pm
2-30 Open Gym 3:30-6pm Open Gym Registration Form
2 – 18 Search for Santa’s Helper
3, 10, 17, 31  – Farm Wagon 9 am   Map
3 – Indoor Snowball Fight 5:30-6:30pm*
13 – Santa Mailbox last day 8am
2-13 – Virtual Gingerbread House Contest starts
16-19 – Gingerbread House Contest Voting on Facebook
11 – Paws and Claus 5:30-7pm City Gym
12 – Toddler Time Story Time with Mrs. Claus 11am-12pm City Gym
12 – Winter Wonderland 5:30-7pm City Gym
13 – Giant Stocking Coloring Contest Ends
19 – Theater Thursday 10am
24 – Santa Run FREE group run, 9 am

Photo/Video Policy
Photos and video footage are periodically taken of people participating in Bluffton Parks Department programs or activities, attending a class or event, or using park facilities or property.  Please be aware that by registering for a program or class, participating in an activity, attending an event, or using park facilities or property, you authorize the Bluffton Parks Department to use these photos and video footage for the promotional purposes of publications, advertising, marketing materials, brochures, event flyers, digital signs, social media (including Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and any other social media sites) and website without additional prior notice or permission and without any compensation to you.  All photos and videos are property of the Bluffton Parks Department.

Fall 2023 Events Brochure

2023 Wellness Events & Races. (Link to Race Results)

Ongoing Events
Restorative Yoga – Thursdays at 6:45 p.m. Washington Park Pavilion. $5
Yoga Flow – Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Washington Park Pavilion. $5
Rock Steady Boxing Bluffton (Parkinson’s Program) – Monday/Wednesday/Friday at 10:30 a.m. Call 260-824-6069 for information.

January
1 – Wells Winter 100 Challenge Starts (ends March 31)

February
4 – Chilly Chili Trail Run. 9:00 a.m. Ouabache State Park (photos)

April
22 – Earth Day 5K. 9:00 a.m. Bluffton City Gym

May
1 – Pedal Wells 250 & 500 Mile Virtual Challenge May 1 – Aug 31. (Strava club link) (online registration) (2023 mileage log)
13 – Power Your Wheels (power wheels & bicycle obstacle course for kids). 10 a.m. Roush Park. FREE
20 – Plants & Poses Yoga Brunch. 9:00 a.m. Washington Park Pavilion. $25/$20 (online registration)

June
15 – Chicks Run 5k Run/Walk.  7:00 p.m. Pickett’s Run Park (online registration)
21 – 5 in 5 5k Series Run 1. 7:00 p.m. Bluffton City Gym. $1.00. No pre-registration
28 – 5 in 5 5k Series Run 2. 7:00 p.m. Bluffton City Gym. $1.00. No pre-registration
29 – Super Hero 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run (kids & adults!). 7:00 p.m. Pickett’s Run Park. (online registration)
29 – Light Up the Night Bike Ride. 9:00 p.m. Pickett’s Run Park. FREE

July
5 – 5 in 5 5k Series Run 3. 7:00 p.m. Bluffton City Gym. $1.00. No pre-registration
12- 5 in 5 5k Series Run 4. 7:00 p.m. Bluffton City Gym. $1.00
19 – 5 in 5 5k Series Run 5. 7:00 p.m. Bluffton City Gym. $1.00

August
1 – 31 Virtual Summer Triathlon (Activity Tracker) (online registration)

September
2 – Parlor City Trot (5k, 10k, 13.1 mile). 7:30 a.m. Bluffton City Gym (download entry form) (online registration)
23 – Walk Steady for Rock Steady

November
4 – WOOF Trail Run (5, 10, 15 miles). 9:00 a.m. Ouabache State Park
23 – Wobble Before You Gobble 5k Fun Run. 9:00 a.m. Bluffton City Gym. FREE

2024 Park and Recreation Summer Activities

2024 Summer Events

FUN FUN FUN and most of it FREE!! Summer recreation sign-up starts May 14th.  To register, view the link above and select the programs you want to participate in. Next, e-mail us at events@blufftonindiana.gov with the child’s name, age, phone number, and the list of classes they want, or call 824-6069.  If the event says “drop-in,” you don’t need to register; simply show up.

Grades are determined by what year the students just completed.

FREE TENNIS LESSONS: Monday – Friday, June 3 – July 19 (No classes week of July 1-5) at Lion’s Park (228 Midway), weather permitting. A parent must register their child the first day they attend. (Follow us on Facebook for any weather-related delays at Bluffton Parks) The class is determined by the grade the student will enter or by being age five by June 1stTennis Waiver

High School: 11:30 – 12:30 pm      5th – 8th: 12:30-1:30 pm             5yrs-1st : 1:30-2:30 pm (Mondays only)               2nd – 4th: 1:30-2:30 pm (Tue – Fri)

SPLASH PADS – 2 Locations: 304 E Washington St at Pickett’s Run Park & 925 W Silver St at Roush Park.  Hours: 11 am-7 pm

Park Rules: Playground Rules

Photo/Video Policy  Photos and video footage are periodically taken of people participating in Bluffton Parks Department programs or activities, attending a class or event, or using park facilities or property.  Please be aware that by registering for a program or class, participating in an activity, attending an event, or using park facilities or property, you authorize the Bluffton Parks Department to use these photos and video footage for the promotional purposes of publications, advertising, marketing materials, brochures, event flyers, social media (including Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and any other social media sites) and website without additional prior notice or permission and without any compensation to you.  All photos and videos are property of the Bluffton Parks Department.

Register for the Parks Department summer activities by calling 824-6069 or e-mailing parks@blufftonindiana.gov.  Please include participants’ names, phone, e-mail, and a list of classes starting May 15th.  

Summer Ball Registration Info:

T-Ball:  Stacy Herrold – 727-1102   

Girls Softball: Jessica Beste – 273-2230

Farm League/Jr League:  Gary Napier-  phone 387-2279; e-mail gary.napier31@gmail.com  PO Box 227 Bluffton In 46714

Membership to gain entry to The Bluffton Dog Park, located at 805 W Market at the intersection of Indiana and Market Street can be purchased at City Hall. The registration forms are available at City Clerk Treasurer’s Office or can be downloaded at this link: Bluffton K-9 Kommons Rules and Waiver 2023  K 9 Kommons 2024 Rules and Waiver  
Jefferson Park, 315 E Horton; and is approximately 2.1 acres in size, located in the southeast portion of Bluffton off Townley and Bennett Streets. Facilities include a playground, 2 T-Ball diamonds, a batting cage, a press box, and a concession stand/restrooms building. T-Ball is for ages 4-6, and the coach pitch is for 7 and 8, boys and girls.
Kehoe Park 300 N Main; is about 2 acres in size and located in the central part of Bluffton along the Wabash River, just west of the Ind. 1N-Ind. 124 juncture. Facilities include a lighted amphitheater (outdoor theatre), a pavilion (gazebo) with picnic tables, and a restrooms building. This is the site of the summer concert series and free Friday movies in July.
200 East Jackson Street; is located on Bluffton’s north side off Ind. 1 and includes approximately 17.5 acres.  The park includes a half-mile walking trail with benches, a pavilion with restrooms, a lighted basketball court with six goals, a dual-use football/soccer field, a dual-use 9-hole disc golf/foot golf course, a playground, a Gaga ball pit, two sand volleyball courts, two cornhole games, a giant foosball court, a solar charging station, a fire pit, a bike repair station with air pump, a sledding hill, a pole barn, and lots of open space.  The park will be under construction in 2024 to install three lighted pickleball courts as well as make parking lot improvements. Pavilion rentals will begin sometime in the fall.  (Former Lancaster School property)
Lions Park, 228 Midway;  is approximately 5.5 acres in the west-central part of Bluffton, off Midway and Washington Streets, Facilities include a playground, a pavilion with picnic tables and grill, a mini-soccer field, 2 lighted basketball courts, 3 lighted tennis courts, 2 restroom facilities, a maintenance office building with storage, a practice T-Ball diamond, a lighted softball diamond, and a concession stand. Adult Softball Leagues and the Sandy Koufax league for boys ages 13-14 use the field at Lions Park, which used to be Wilson Field through the years that it was the football field for the high school.
Pickett’s Run is located on E. Washington St. near the intersection of Wayne St and River Road. The name of this property comes from the stream that once ran through this park site. This is the former location of 17 homes that were damaged in the July 2003 flood and had to be destroyed. Phase 1 of the park is complete which includes paved paths (Pickett’s Run Loop  1/5 mile or 326 meters), picnic tables, benches, wood carvings, a NEW Story Walk, and a historical marker. Located across the street at the corner of E. Washington & Bennett St. is the splash pad spray park made possible by the generosity of the Wells County Foundation in honor of the 50th Anniversary. The splash pad is open May-Sept, 11 am-7 pm, daily depending on the weather. There is no cost to enjoy! The park also includes a life fitness trail for outdoor exercise.  
River Greenway Trail Corridor is a paved walking and bicycling trail starting at the east end of East Wabash Street, in the heart of Bluffton, and then running southeast on the banks of the Wabash River on River Road to the White Bridge, a distance of 2 1/4 miles. The state has extended the trail eastward from the bridge, connecting it into Ouabache State Park, where it links into an extensive park trail. The total trail from Bluffton to and through much of the state park is close to 5 miles. Future plans are to continue the River Greenway Trail westward to Markle. River Greenway Trail features include a boating access site in the east end of the trail near the White Bridge, a replica historic covered bridge, and designated parking lots along the trail. No horses or motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail or any hiking or bike trail in the city.
Rotary Park is between 1 and 2 acres in size. This park is part of the River Greenway Trail corridor off the River Road along the Wabash River in the east part of Bluffton. Facilities include a pavilion with picnic tables, a paved parking lot, and access to the Rivergreenway Trail.
Roush Park, 925 W Silver;  is about 8 acres in size and located in the southwest part of Bluffton, off the Indiana Street-Clark Avenue intersection. Facilities include playground equipment, 2 lighted baseball diamonds, 2 lighted softball diamonds, picnic areas, 2 pavilions, restroom/changing facilities, a storage building, press boxes at the ball diamonds, batting cages, concession stand, and 2 basketball courts. The Farm League (9 and 10-year-old boys) and Jr. League (11 and 12-year-old boys) use the two baseball diamonds. Junior Girls League (ages 9-12) and Senior Girls League (ages 13-16) use the two softball diamonds. NEW in 2016 will be a splash pad, and a 1/2 mile paved walking trail along with renovations done to the large pavilion.  
Veterans Memorial Park, 725 S Main; is in the southeast part of Bluffton at the corner of Main and Arnold Streets. This park features memorial gardens, walkways, a gazebo, and park benches. It is the scene of official tributes to those who have served in the nation’s defense. Wells County WWII Veterans  Korean, Vietnam, War on Terror Veterans
Washington Park, 710 S Mulberry; is approximately 2.6 acres in size in the southeast part of Bluffton, off Ohio, Mulberry, Arnold, and Bennett Streets. Facilities include playground equipment, 2 8-foot basketball goals, and 2 lighted 10-foot basketball goals that will be resurfaced early 2020; a new year-round enclosed pavilion with kitchenette, a Rock Steady Boxing/ Fitness room, and a lighted pavilion with picnic tables. Across the street are 3 lighted tennis courts.
Wabash River Park is located at the beginning (west end) of the River Greenway Trail Corridor and is about 1/2-acre in size. Facilities included are picnic tables, benches, and a gazebo.

Park & Pavilion Rentals All pavilion rentals are made through the Parks Department at 260-824-6069. Rentals are to be paid when reserving and liability waivers are signed. Pavilion Rental Form 2024 Pavilion Rental Calendar  Call to schedule your event before filling out the rental agreement form to confirm dates and times. 824-6069

Memorial Tree Donation – Honor a loved one by planting trees in their memory.  Orders are collected all year long, and trees are planted at the best suitable time (typically spring or fall).  Your donation not only provides a home for wildlife and shade for families walking on the River Greenway trail, but it also protects the trail itself, as the tree roots stabilize the bank.  Did you know that a single tree provides enough oxygen for one year for a family of 4 or that it can capture 18,000 gallons of water over the course of their lives, improving the watershed areas?  By planting memorial trees, you not only honor the life and legacy of your loved one you also help preserve the tree canopy in our beautiful parks and trails for generations to come.  Memorial Tree Donation Form

Angel of Hope – is located at 225 E Wabash Street. This Park was built by donations under the direction of a committee consisting of Wells County citizens and businesses in memory of their lost loved ones. The idea for this park came from the book entitled “The Christmas Box”. This picturesque setting includes landscaping for shade and privacy with the beautiful centerpiece 4’3” Angel overseeing the park. The Park contains brick pathways engraved with the names of lost loved ones, benches, and decorative lampposts. This Park provides the soothing sound of water and a beautiful view of the nearby Wabash River. A candlelight vigil is held every December to honor loved ones lost from the current year, and in October the Domestic Violence organization holds a candlelight vigil to bring awareness to their mission. (Park size is .5 acres) – Memorial Brick Order Form 

Washington Park  Washington Park Rental Information  (710 S Mulberry)  The inside pavilion is open year-round and includes a warming kitchen and seating for 120 people.  The bottom left cabinet in the kitchen includes 2 horseshoe games and bags for the cornhole game located in the park.  Feel free to use these supplies and return them when finished.  (electricity and restrooms available)

Lancaster Park 200 East Jackson Street;  The park includes a half-mile walking trail with benches, a pavilion (12 picnic tables and electrical outlets available), restrooms, a lighted basketball court with six goals, a dual-use football/soccer field, a dual-use 9-hole disc golf/foot golf course, a playground, a Gaga ball pit, two sand volleyball courts, two cornhole games, a giant foosball court, a solar charging station, a fire pit, a bike repair station with air pump, a sledding hill, a pole barn, and lots of open space.  The park will be under construction in 2024 to install three lighted pickleball courts as well as make parking lot improvements. Pavilion rentals will begin sometime in the fall.

Lion’s Park (228 Midway) Includes 4 picnic tables, seating for 24 people, no electricity, restrooms available.

Roush Park (925 W Silver) Pavilion Large Rental includes 20+ picnic tables, serving counters, electric, restrooms available; Small Pavilion has 3 picnic tables and restrooms available. Roush Park Golf Cart Parking

Rotary Park (Along River Greenway) Pavilion includes 3 picnic tables, seating for 18 people, no outlets, no restrooms

Wabash River (Corner of Scott & Wabash Streets) Pavilion includes 3 picnic tables, seating for 18 people, no outlets, no restrooms

Wetland Trail – This city-owned property on the Northside of the river is great for biking and walking, per city ordinance 1070 horses are not allowed on this trail.  Click for a map view: Native Habitat Waterway

Wells Community Pool
–  (310 West Spring Street) Pavilion Rental includes 17 picnic tables, 4 electric outlets, has a charcoal grill in the yard outside of the pool and restrooms in the pool house.  See the “swimming” tab on the website for rental forms.

 

Park Rules:

Park closes at 11 pm

No profanity, obscene gestures, bullying, or other inappropriate behavior will be tolerated

No alcohol or illegal drugs

Minors may not have knives, or pellet guns, or any other device that emits a projectile on park property

Dispose of trash in receptacles

The large dumpsters are for park use only and trash from rentals, NO illegal dumping

Do not climb or hang on basketball rims

No bikes, skates, skateboards, scooters in the pavilion area or on tennis courts

No motorized vehicles on trails, sidewalks, or paths in the parks

No standing on picnic tables or benches

Keep dogs on a leash & remove waste

Metal detecting is not allowed on park property

If you see something, say something, these are your community parks.  Notify the Bluffton Police Department at 824-3320 to report inappropriate behavior needing immediate response.  You may also call the park office at 260 824-6069 to report what you observed.  Please indicate the date, time, and description of the incident so that we can find it quickly on our security cameras.

Playground Safety

Adult Supervision advised

Use equipment properly

Beware of hot surfaces

Remove drawstrings to prevent entanglement

Do not use when wet, damaged or roped off

Do not jump off equipment

Do not bring benches, tables, etc. into the play area

Do not climb up slides

Packed earth surfaces under equipment may result in serious injury from falls

Photo/Video Policy  Photos and video footage are periodically taken of people participating in Bluffton Parks Department programs or activities, attending a class or event, or using park facilities or property.  Please be aware that by registering for a program or class, participating in an activity, attending an event, or using park facilities or property, you authorize the Bluffton Parks Department to use these photos and video footage for the promotional purposes of publications, advertising, marketing materials, brochures, event flyers, social media (including Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and any other social media sites) and website without additional prior notice or permission and without any compensation to you.  All photos and videos are property of the Bluffton Parks Department.

City Gym

City Gym Photo Tour

Students in grades K-12 are invited to the city gym for supervised play from 3:30-6 pm on Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.  Basketballs and other equipment are provided during this time.  Make sure to pick your student up on time.  Calendars for the gym can be found here https://teamup.com/kshe54y9g2zc9mykm8  (Baseballs, roller skates, and skateboards are not allowed on the gym floor)  Free event! Open Gym will cancel for bad weather if Bluffton Schools cancel for the day.  Open Gym Registration Form

Bluffton City Gym Membership 2024 Print off the Bluffton City Gym Membership form in advance to have everyone who is in your household that are 18 years of age or older sign the form prior to receiving the city gym key.  Becoming a member of the city gym gives you access to the fitness room, locker rooms, saunas, racquetball court, and the gym.  1 Day pass is also available for guests who attend with a member for $5 a day.   Payments are accepted at the City Clerk Treasurer’s office.

Gym Rental Gym Rental is $25 per hour. For Gym Rental information, contact the Parks Department office at (260) 824-6069.  Rental Application Form

Gym Rules:

  1. Family members (immediate family) are married spouses and minor (IRS dependent) children in the same household. Exceptions in the case of split families may be made; if you have questions, contact the PARK OFFICE. Keys are to be used by members only and may not be given to anyone else. Other members included in the “family key” are college-enrolled children still supported by parents.  Any other household residents 18 years old and above MUST purchase their own key. Single members are the only persons allowed to use their keys. They cannot bring in guests/family members or allow others to use their keys, including spouses, children, or other family members.
  2. Anyone using alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, smoking, or other inappropriate behavior in the gym or other gym-associated facilities, will have their membership revoked.  No weapons are allowed in or around the facility.
  3. Turn out all the lights (except stairwell lights) when you finish using gym facilities, and secure doors as you leave.
  4. An adult must accompany family members under 18 in this facility.  Family members ages 14-17 need an adult to use the weight room; children under 14 are not allowed in the weight room.
  5. No one under the age of 18 may use the sauna.
  6. All facilities are to be used at your own risk.
  7. Immediately notify the gym supervisor if you observe improper behavior or damage in the facilities, or contact the Bluffton Police Department at 824-3320.  Please report maintenance concerns to 824-6069 (24 hr. voicemail).
  8. Treat the facility with respect.
  9. The gym hours are from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. There are to be no activities past 11:00 p.m. without prior approval by the Park Board.
  10. Any person who misuses the City Gym facilities or equipment, engages in misconduct on or about the facilities or engages in conduct disruptive to programs being held at the facilities, whether or not in connection with an event sponsored by the Parks Department, shall be subject to having their City Gym privileges revoked at the sole discretion of the Superintendent of the Parks Department for the City of Bluffton.
  11. Open gym hours are for students only, no adults.  This is a special time set aside for children, and adult members may not be on the gym floor.  Members may still use the weight room, locker room & racquetball court.

Please report immediately any repairs or maintenance that may be needed. You can just leave it on the parks department voice mail, which is available 24 hours a day at 824-6069. ** MEMBERSHIP TO THE BLUFFTON CITY GYM IS A PRIVILEGE THAT MAY BE REVOKED AT ANY TIME BY THE BLUFFTON PARKS & RECREATION BOARD OR ITS EMPLOYEES FOR DISREGARD OF THE RULES AND GUIDELINES OR INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR. NO REFUNDS WILL BE GIVEN! ** 1-DAY PASSES ARE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE IF YOU’D LIKE TO BRING IN A NON-BCG MEMBER.  Application(PDF)

Wells Community Pool

wellsPool

Splash Pads Information

Wells Community Pool Information

Wells Community Swimming Pool  310 West Spring Street (260) 824-1550

Weather permitting, the pool hours are 1-6 pm 7-days a week.  The pool is heated between 80-82°.   Please note that no refunds are given on days we must close early due to weather or low attendance.  The temperature needs to reach at least 70° to open.

The pool is available for private rentals. Dates fill up fast, and we will start taking reservations beginning January 2nd by calling 824-6069.  Call the pool directly during the pool season (May 25-Aug 4th) at 824-1550 to make a reservation.

Ticket Package  20 tickets for $60.00.  Tickets are suitable for all ages and days.

Daily Admissions Adult (18+) $4; Youth (3-17yrs) $3.50; 2 & under free w/ paid ADULT (Limit 3 children per paid adult) Daily discounts are $2.50 admissions for all ages from 4-6pm only.

Lap Swim Monday, Wednesday, Friday (12:00 – 12:50 pm) – $2.00   A 10-visit pass is available for $15.  Teens who wish to swim laps will be allowed to participate.

Pool Rentals  Are $125 per hour Monday – Thursday or $145 Friday – Sunday.  Rentals include the giant slide, all lifeguards, and free pavilion use for parties of 1-150 people.  Parties with over 150 guests are $175 per hour Monday – Thursday or $195 Friday – Sunday.  Logrolling equipment is $20 per hour.  Please note your rental will still take place in the evening even though the pool may have closed earlier due to weather or low attendance.  The rental will be canceled if the weather is unsafe for your party. Check the pool rental schedule here:  https://teamup.com/c/tofjqj/pool-rentals

Pool Rental Agreement 2024 Call to schedule your event before filling out the pool rental form to confirm dates and times. During the summer months, call 824-1550. When the pool is closed, call 824-6069.  The Wells Community Pool is ADA accessible thanks to the generous support of the Wells County Foundation. Pool entries include a pool ramp, a Portable Aquatic Lift, and easy-access stairs.

SWIM LESSON REGISTRATION– Saturday, April 27th, 9 am-11 am at City Hall. The cost is $20 due at registration. Swim lessons are for children who have just finished grades K-12. Class lessons are held Monday through Friday, June 3rd – 14th at either 10-10:50 am or 11-11:50 am OR June 24th – July 5th at 11-11:50 am for 10 lessons at the Wells Community Pool. Diving lessons June 24th-July 5th 11-11:50 am.  Call the pool at 825-1550 for private lesson options beginning May 25th.

Pee Wee Swim Lessons are for ages 4-pre-K (adult must get in the water with child).  The cost is $6, and lessons will be M-W-F the week of June 17th. Swim time is from 11-11:45 am. Follow the Wells Community Pool Facebook page for weather-related cancellations.

Tot Swim Lessons are for ages 2-3 yrs old (adult must get in the water with child). The cost is $6, and lessons will be M-W-F the week of June 17th.  Swim time is from 10- 10:45 am.  Follow the Wells Community Pool Facebook page for weather-related cancellations.

Private Swim Lessons  – can be scheduled by calling the pool at 260 824-1550  Cost is $25 per half hour.